CT SB00316

Repeals and replaces Section 17a-593 of the general statutes, effective October 1, 2020, concerning discharge procedures for persons acquitted by reason of mental disease or defect.

Allows acquittees to apply for discharge from custody no more than once every six months and no sooner than six months after the initial board hearing, with the board or acquittee providing written recommendations or applications to the court.

Permits the state's attorney to make application for commitment of acquittees to a hospital for psychiatric disabilities if reasonable cause exists to believe the acquittee poses a danger to themselves or others or is gravely disabled at expiration of their maximum term of commitment.

Requires the board to file a report within ninety days of receiving a discharge application, and allows either party to request a separate psychiatric or psychological examination within ten days of receiving board recommendations or reports, with costs borne by the acquittee or the state if indigent.

Establishes that at discharge hearings, the acquittee bears the burden of proving by preponderance of evidence they should be discharged, and the court must prioritize public safety in deciding whether to order discharge or dismiss the application.